A get-with-it plea was made to Donegal County Council by Ballyshannon representative, Barry O'Neill, at its May meeting, when he pointed out that Ballyshannon was one of five designated Heritage Towns identified under the County Development Plan 2000 along with Ardara, Moville, Ramelton and Raphoe.

"I have to say that whilst at least one town from the list of five has received some benefits from the initiative - I can see no advantages or progress to the title in my hometown of Ballyshannon. There hasn't even been a sign erected by this Council in the last five years since the commencement of the concept to recognise that it is a Heritage Town and a new development plan is ready to roll-out".

He added that the town of Ballyshannon is rich in history and the benefits to tourism from a proper plan to complement the idea of a 'Heritage Town' would be welcomed, considering the poor economic climate now existing.

He stressed that he would like to see signage erected as a matter of urgency ahead of the summer tourist season.

In support of Councillor O'Neill, this e-zine would again refer to one much overlooked attraction unique to his area, The Ballyshannon Unconformity, a geological phenomenon containing "rocks from the basement of time". Thanks to the work of local geologist, Paul Rohleder, its neglect was brought to the attention of geologists and rock hounds worldwide

The article introducing it can be found at
http://www.vindicator.ca/about/ballyDonegal/unconformity.asp.The Ballyshannon Unconformity.

A photograph of a small portion of The Ballyshannon Unconformity can be found at http://www.vindicator.ca/vindicator/oct_2003_ir_2.asp A Man with a Mission. The geologist's hammer shown in it is a sorrowful reminder of a life lost too early. Incidentally, Paul was promoting World Heritage status for the rock formation. Among his last words were these:

"Since much of Ballyshannon's natural heritage was destroyed by outsiders who cared nothing for the damage they wrought, before it too falls to the dynamiters and the cement pavers the Ballyshannon Unconformity should be designated a heritage site, a landscape in stone. There are many precedents world wide."

This e-zine joins Cllr. O'Neill in his plea, and hopes The Ballyshannon Unconformity is given the distinction it deserves.

Geologists globally are a numerous bunch, both professionals and amateurs. They go great distances to view oddities, and combine their passion with holiday travel. And they bring their families with them. "If you show them The Ballyshannon Unconformity, they will come".

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